Follow Hughes

I've wanted to play in the Premier League: it's every young boy's dream, and it's been a long time coming for me

England Under-21 international Will Hughes signed a five-year deal at Vicarage Road in July 2017.

Much coveted within Premier League circles over recent seasons, the creative midfielder joined from Championship side Derby County for an undisclosed fee.

The Surrey-born playmaker came through the youth ranks at Pride Park to make his debut as a 16-year-old in 2011.

Hughes’ experience belies his tender years, with nearly 190 Rams’ appearances racked up by the central midfielder before joining the Hornets in the top flight.

It was a stop-start debut season for Hughes’ as he had to bide his time before making his first Premier League appearance in October against Stoke. Two goals and an assist would follow in the next four games, but injury halted his momentum.

He returned with a bang against West Brom, bagging an assist for the Hornets' winner. His improved performances saw him play out the remainder of the season as part of a dynamic Watford midfield.

The 2018/19 season saw Hughes become a regular starter under Javi Gracia - he made 40 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and creating five more.